Scholarship Forum

Exploring Blavatsky's Theosophy using the tools of scholarship

Blavatsky's Tibetan Sources - by Richard Taylor. Shows that many elements of Blavatsky's Theosophy can be found in Tibetan Buddhism - in both relatively esoteric and relatively exoteric sources - but not available to western students or scholarship in her time. This conclusion adds substantial validation to her claims concerning her trans-himalayan sources.
[This document is a step in the process toward a Ph.D. dissertation on the subject by Richard Taylor.]

A CALL FOR CONSIDERED OPINION. The above preliminary thesis by Rich Taylor has occasioned considerable controvery in the Theosophical internet community. Understandably so. At the same time it offers positive new points on H.P. Blavatsky. My hope is that we can advance the cause of truth here and elsewhere by a joining of opinion on the subjects covered.

Rich may find it useful to incorporate some of the remarks made here into his final thesis, either generally, or verbatim with permission. So each speaker may have wider influence - for better or worse - beyond this page.

I might add for Rich that he hopes for a consideration of the whole contribution of his thesis, and not just the controversial points. However, anyone may limit their comments as they choose.

We hope the considered opinion - pro or con - published here will advance our understanding of the truth. [RC]

The transpersonal model of death as presented
in Madame Blavatsky's Theosophy - by Dr Jean-Louis Siémons. Demonstates that the details and broad aspects of the near death experience, as discovered in the later 20th century, were previously described, and asserted to be true, by H. P. Blavatsky and W.Q. Judge, a century earlier.

If you have comments on this forum or suggestions for additions please send email to carson@blavatsky.net

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